Note: A license to practice barbering does not allow the operation of a business. A separate Barber Shop license is needed to operate a business.

How many hours of training is required for barber?

Hours are determined by the approved NYS barber schools.

How many years of apprentice experience is needed to apply for license?

Two years of licensed New York State barber apprenticeship is required in order to apply for New York State barber exam.

What is a Barber Apprentice?

A barber apprentice is a person pursuing in good faith a course
of study in the practice of barbering under the tutelage,
supervision, and direction of a licensee and who assists such
licensee in such practice.

After you have worked as a NYS-registered barber
apprentice under the supervision of a NYS-licensed barber
for two years you may apply for a barber license based on the apprenticeship.

All applicants must complete
a one time course of study regarding "the transmission of contagious
diseases and the proper methods of sanitation and sterilization
to be employed in barber shops." The course curricula must be
approved by the Education Department and proof of course
completion must be submitted with your application

You may pay by check or money order made payable to the Department of State or by American Express, MasterCard or Visa using a credit card authorization form. DO NOT SEND CASH. Application fees are nonrefundable. A $20 fee will be charged for any check returned by your bank.

Do I need a physical to be licensed?

Yes. You need to be examined by a physician or physician's
assistant to apply for a license in Barbering. Your physician or
physician's assistant must complete and date the Health Certification
section of the application. You must submit your application
within 30 days after it is signed.

Is there reciprocity or endorsement with another states?

Yes. For barbers there is a reciprocal agreement between New York State and Maine, Pennsylvania and New Mexico. Because of the similarity in license standards in Maine, New Mexico and Pennsylvania, the Department of State will waive the New York State practical exam requirement if you supply an original certificate (with raised seal) from one of those states, along with a completed Barber Operator Application.